Fisker Automotive Inc. of Irvine unveiled a high-performance plug-in hybrid — the Karma — that it plans to sell for $80,000 beginning in late 2009.

Quantum Technologies of Irvine developed the car’s power system. Its main power source is a lithium battery pack that drives an electric motor. The battery can be charged by either a small onboard gasoline engine or by being plugged in. When fully charged, the Karma can drive up to 50 miles without using a drop of gasoline.

Alan Niedzwiecki, CEO of Quantum Technologies, said: “By combining our efforts with the renowned design talent of Henrik Fisker, we can produce cars that make a difference to the environment — without sacrificing the luxury that accompanies the finest automobiles.”

Debuting at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the Karma is capable of driving 0-60 in 6 seconds and reaching a top speed of 125 miles per hour. Fisker plans to produce 15,000 of the cars.

“Our hope is that the Fisker Karma will be the start of a new trend in the automotive buisness — less concession with more efficiency,” said Henrik Fisker, the new car’s designer and chief executive officer of Fisker Automotive.

Fisker, a former designer for BMW and Aston-Martin, also produces limited-edition luxury sport cars: the Tramonto, based on a Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG chassis, and the Latigo, based on the BMW 6-series chassis.